A filmmaker with a soft spot for Ronnie Peterson, Gilles Villeneuve, Mika Hakkinen and above all, Tazio Nuvolari and Ayrton Senna, is also a diehard Formula One fan since the age of 4 (mid-90's). An avid researcher of the past of Grand Prix Racing since before it was even named F1, and with a thirst for knowledge of the ins and outs of the actuality of the sport, as well as for the technical aspects that define it, is a member of GPblog since 2023, where he has put his love of racing to good use.
Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff has played down any surprise over the close relationship between rookie Kimi Antonelli and seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, despite the Briton’s switch to Ferrari for 2025.
'Hamilton will always be a part of the Mercedes family'
The Briton's ties to the German brand run deep with the two parties collaborating on his rapid ascent to F1.
There he completed a 6-year spell at McLaren, then powered by Mercedes before making the switch to the Mercedes works team in 2013.
There Hamilton would spend the majority of his 18-year long tenure in F1, driving for the Brackley-based outfit for 12 seasons overall, and taking 6 Drivers' titles and helping the Germans to 7 Constructors' championships altogether.
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“Lewis remains very important to us; he was a pillar of our team and will always be part of the Mercedes family, even though he now drives for Ferrari," Wolff said to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
Kimi Antonelli has experienced highs and lows in his debut season
Hamilton recognises the champion in Kimi Antonelli
“Champions recognise other champions,” Wolff added.
"My friendship with Lewis has remained unchanged. We talk often, and I think he understands the challenges Kimi faces.”
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Wolff emphasised that Hamilton’s willingness to offer guidance to Antonelli reflects the Italian’s raw talent and the mutual respect between both elite drivers.
“Lewis knows what it’s like to debut under huge expectations, and Kimi is stepping into one of the most scrutinised seats in Formula 1. Support like that is invaluable.”
The Mercedes boss recently spoke at length about Hamilton’s mentality and adaptability in his first year at Ferrari, praising his honesty and resilience in the face of early struggles.
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